In a bid to transform the transport system in the capital, Dublin is set to get its first 24-hour bus service.
Starting next month on December 1st, the round-the-clock service will be trialled on a number of routes.
Part of a major expansion programme in
Dublin Bus Service, the National Transport Authority (NTA) confirmed that the number 41, servicing Swords, and Dublin Airport via city centre, would be the first route to be trialled.
According to the NTA the new service would be of great benefit to members of the public working irregular hours. Along with all those in late-night industries such as pubs and restaurants in the city.
TD Noel Rock took to social media to announce that the number 15 bus, running between Clongriffin and Knocklyon, would become 24/7 as well.
https://twitter.com/NoelRock/status/1192173334311649281?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1192173334311649281&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.98fm.com%2Fnews%2F24-hour-bus-service-dublin-begin-next-month-922365
He later added that it “should’ve happened years ago but glad it is now”.
Local residents have welcomed the news, agreeing that there is a huge demand for such a service. The provision of better late-night services would cut down on the demand for taxis and allow for the city's night-time economy to thrive.
Dublin Bus currently operates 18 Nitelink services in the city. The late-night service typically runs between midnight and 4 am on Fridays and Saturdays.
It’s understood that the decision was made following on from the introduction of an around-the-clock service successfully introduced in Cork City last year – where Bus Eireann now operates a 24-hour service between Ballincollig and Carrigaline.
All going well, it’s hoped that other 24-hour routes will be rolled out for the capital in the future.
